Thursday - "The Plan"

We plan vacations. We plan our retirement. Some even set out their clothes the night before to make sure that they have everything for the next day. However many of us (or our kids) make no plan whatsoever when they decide to date. As Christ-followers there are a few things that are essential if we are to have a relationship with another person that honors God and allows us to live blessable lives.

1) Guard Your Heart - "Guard your heart above all else,
for it determines the course of your life." - Proverbs 4:23

Be careful about giving away your affections...when we become heart-connected with someone without knowing their character, we run the risk of throwing our lives off-course.

2) Know Who You are Dating - "Don’t be fooled by those who say such things, for “bad company corrupts good character.” - 1 Cor. 15:33

Don't fool yourself, if they are people who aren't honoring God with their lives...it WILL affect you and your mindset. Most people are tricked into thinking it can't happen. It does nearly every time.

3) If you are a Christ-follower, date Christians - "Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?" - 2 Cor. 6:14

I've seen too many couples who try to date when one is a believer and the other isn't. Remember, this person you are dating could potentially be your husband/wife! Spirituality will come up and it isn't an easy hurdle to clear!

Overall, don't compromise your values or who Christ made you to be. You have worth. You are a child of the King. Don't settle just to be married. Don't give up your identity just to hold hands with someone. Stay strong...date in a way that honors Christ...set your boundaries beforehand... and watch God bless your life (and your relationships) immeasurably.

See you tomorrow,
Pastor Brian